Fox 11: Mother's Day and the "Modern Family"

Mother's Day is all about celebrating mom, right? Well, not so fast... As the face of the American family continues to change so do holidays/celebrations, including Mother's Day.

Decades ago the definition of the "typical" family was mom, dad, and two siblings-- or something close to that. Now, the "modern family" is something very different.

According to Dr. Stacy Wadlington, a licensed clinical psychologist, practicing in Pasadena:

"The face of the typical family has evolved- and most likely will continue to do so – but the role of the parent to promote and support the physical , social and emotional development of a child has never waivered. The way that Mother's Day is celebrated will vary by cultural / religious beliefs traditions , etc but the sentiment will always be one of gratitude and love."

According to Dr. Larry Ganong, co-chair of Human Development and Family Sciences at the University of Missouri:

"Children need at least one adult who looks out for their interests (safety, security, food, etc.) and who loves them. If they have that, they have a chance to do well in life. Children in all types of family structures are doing well – poverty and family conflicts have the most detrimental effects on children, far more than does the type of family in which they reside."